KBS Documentary 'Donghaeng' Celebrates 10 Years of Impactful Stories

The human documentary series 'Donghaeng' (동행) is set to reflect on the miracles and stories of those it has accompanied over the past decade. The special 500th episode, airing tonight at 6 PM on KBS 1TV, revisits families featured in the show to highlight how social awareness can significantly alter a family's future.
Since its premiere on January 3, 2015, 'Donghaeng' has shared the stories of over 480 families in need, delivering a heartfelt message of sharing and support. As it celebrates its 10th anniversary, the show has received accolades such as the Broadcast Review Committee's Good Program Award for episodes like 'Dad and the Clarinet' (Episode 46) and 'The Twelve-Year-Old Detective of the Alley' (Episode 407), as well as the 2023 Christian Culture Award, leaving a lasting emotional impact on viewers.
In this milestone episode, the beloved 'donation angel couple,' actors Cha In-pyo (차인표) and Shin Ae-ra (신애라), will visit a family living in a grandparent-grandchild household. They will meet Min-seok (민석이), a 12-year-old boy known as the 'Turtle Boy,' and his 75-year-old grandmother. After learning about Min-seok's unique journey, the couple plans to treat them to a meal and present personalized gifts, offering their encouragement and support.
After filming, Cha In-pyo and Shin Ae-ra expressed their hopes that 'Donghaeng' would raise awareness about the situations of marginalized neighbors, emphasizing that life is not meant to be lived alone but in companionship. They wish for a society where everyone can live together harmoniously.
The episode will also showcase updates on families whose lives have transformed through the support received from 'Donghaeng.' Viewers will witness how social interest can lead to significant changes in a family's future, reinforcing the importance of community support.
These transformations are not solely the result of the show's efforts but are also a testament to the collective compassion and support from various individuals and organizations. Collaborating with the Green Umbrella Children's Foundation (초록우산 어린이 재단), which focuses on survival support, developmental assistance, and advocacy for children's rights, 'Donghaeng' has been able to share hope through contributions from local governments, businesses, and generous sponsors. Companies like Hanssem (한샘) have supported housing improvements, while healthcare firm Ceragem (세라젬) has provided health appliances for low-income families with serious illnesses. SkyLife (스카이라이프) has offered high-definition broadcasting services, and HUG (주택도시보증공사) has contributed through donations.
For the past decade, 'Donghaeng' has been a beacon of hope, shedding light on the lives of neighbors in need and walking alongside viewers to create a path of hope. The series will continue to inspire a warm community spirit and deliver hope to those who require assistance.